Tides are the periodic rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces exerted by the Moon and the Sun, along with Earth's rotation. These movements create a cycle of high and low tides that typically occur twice daily.
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The primary force driving tides is the gravitational pull of the Moon, with the Sun also contributing to a lesser extent.
Spring tides, which are higher than average, occur during full and new moons when the Earth, Moon, and Sun are aligned.
Neap tides, which are lower than average, happen during the first and third quarters of the moon when the gravitational forces of the Moon and Sun are perpendicular.
The difference in height between consecutive high and low tides is known as tidal range.
Coastal geography can significantly amplify or diminish tidal effects due to local topography and bathymetry.